Only in South Dakota: 11 Quirks Locals Know and Love

When you move to a new state, things can feel alien. Even if it's not very far away. When I moved to South Dakota from Nebraska, there was some culture shock, mostly little things here and there like food tax and the frightening lack of Runzas.

With all the new folks moving to the Sioux Empire, there's gonna be people who feel out of place at first. But don't worry. Sioux Falls is a welcoming place, and before too long, you will feel like a local.

Unique South Dakota Experiences Only Locals Truly Understand

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Before too long, you'll know what a scotcheroo is, wearing shorts in the winter, and talking about heading west river.

MORE: A Survival Guide For Your First Sioux Falls, South Dakota Winter

11 Things You’ll Only Understand After Living in South Dakota

From soda to pop to sloppy Joes, different parts of the country have their local quirks and language. Simple phrases can have totally different means, local events may seem weird, and food may go by a unique name.

If you're new to South Dakota here is a sort of translation guide for some odd things you may see or hear.

Gallery Credit: Ben Kuhns